Arthritis 2-LEWAC

Arthritis – Part II
by Glen R. Smith, M.D., Ph.D. Internal Medicine/Endocrinology
Email: hwellness@aol.com
135 Grant Street, Buffalo, New York 14213, Telephone: 881-4300, Fax: 881-5300
Office hours Monday – Friday 9 AM – 5 PM

In my previous article, I defined arthritis as inflammation of the joint. I pointed out that this term refers to more than 100 different diseases that can cause stiffness, redness, pain, and limitation of joints and connective tissues throughout the body – and that once arthritis develops, it usually becomes chronic. I also pointed out that osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common.

It is very important to know that arthritis is a very serious disease that can lead to major health problems and even death. For this reason, it is imperative that the individual does not second-guess his or her type of arthritis or the treatment needed.

Arthritic conditions must be diagnosed and monitored by a trained health care professional.
Because arthritis is so prevalent and often chronic, people with this disease usually succumb to the many myths surrounding the disease and quite often delay seeking proper medical diagnosis and treatment. Individuals often fall prey to expensive “cures” and treatments that have no proven medical or scientific benefits.

Before we can address prevention and intervention of these diseases, I must first address and dispel some of the myths surrounding arthritis. Myth #1: Arthritis is just a part of getting old and as we age, everything falls apart – therefore, there is nothing we can do about it. Fact: Arthritis is not just an old person’s disease. It can strike people at any age and although there are many forms of arthritis, the disease can become chronic. There are many things that we can do to delay the onset and alleviate pain and disability. Myth #2: Because arthritis is often chronic and is so widespread, there is no need to take it seriously or go to the doctor and get proper treatment as a result of early diagnosis. Fact: Since there are over 100 different types of arthritis, it is imperative that a patient get an accurate diagnosis of his or her type of arthritis so that the proper treatment and course of therapy can be recommended, since some forms of arthritis can indeed be cured. In many instances, through proper treatment, severe disability can be delayed or prevented.

Now, let’s talk intervention. Once your specific form of arthritis has been accurately diagnosed, there are many forms of treatment that can delay further damage to the joint, relieve pain and suffering, and help with mobility. Because arthritis can be such a serious and even life-threatening disease, it is strongly recommended that anyone who thinks that he/she has arthritis contact a physician to make an accurate diagnosis and to recommend appropriate therapy treatment.

The three main approaches in the treatment of arthritis are: 1) non-medical prevention/intervention, 2) medical intervention and treatment, and 3) surgical intervention and treatment.

Here’s what you can do with regard to the non-medical prevention/intervention approach. Know your body and treat it with respect. If you abuse your body, it will come back to haunt you. The principal cause of osteoarthritis is wearing down of the joint. We cannot stop the aging process but through proper nutrition and weight control we can reduce the weight-bearing pressure on the joint. Adequate water intake also aids in proper lubrication of the joint. Get moving and keep moving whenever possible. Exercise is an excellent means of preventing joint stiffness and immobility. Pay attention to body position. Make sure you use proper bending or lifting techniques and know the proper use of assistive devices such as canes, crutches, walkers or joint support braces. Someone from your health care provider team can help you.

In the third and final article on arthritis, I will discuss medical and surgical intervention and treatment. Remember – knowledge is power; wisdom is applying that knowledge. Take charge of your health. Be in partnership with your doctor. You are a major player on the health care team. Be well and be informed.